Shehbaz Sharif offers to host US-Iran talks as Pakistan emerges as mediator

Pakistan has said it is ready to host talks between the United States and Iran as the conflict in West Asia entered its 25th day, even as uncertainty remains over whether negotiations are actually taking place. The offer comes amid reports of fresh diplomatic efforts involving regional powers to prevent further escalation. Islamabad’s statement followed claims that representatives from Pakistan, Turkey and Egypt have been in contact with US envoy Steve Witkoff, while Washington said discussions with Tehran were moving forward, a claim Iran has strongly denied.

In an interview with Al Jazeera, Pakistan Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Andrabi said Islamabad would be willing to host negotiations if the concerned countries agreed. He stressed that dialogue and diplomacy were essential to maintain peace and stability in the region.

“If Iran and Israel wish, Islamabad is always ready to host talks. Continuous dialogue is necessary to ensure stability in the region,” he said.